Plastic is used in packaging consumer durables because it is one of the cheapest choices.
Plastic can be molded into complex shapes and mass-produced; it lasts longer than many packaging materials
Disadvantages:
can lose shape, crush under weight or break and split easily during transportation.
If the plastic material does not have the proper consistency, it will lack sufficient heat resistance and the food items can spoil.
Plastic draws dust.
And plastic packaging is not always airtight--it can allow gases and water vapor in and out, which will affect the freshness of the food item or easily contaminate it.
Metal packaging: Advantages:
Low environmental impact
Easily recycled and used many times over
Lightweight, strong, flexible packaging products
Some of the most abundant elements in the earth’s crust
100% protection against contaminants, moisture and oxygen
protection aginst light and gasses
sustainable
Disadvantages:
some types of metal such as steel are vulnerable to the effects of corrosion, which can cause the metal to deteriorate.
as they are not transparent, consumers cannot see contents or inspect a potential purchase.
it Cannot be easily stored after use or folded up to save space.
Aluminium can be resistant to corrosion, but does have an issue with acidic foods- like tomatoes- the food may be affected by the Aluminium and end up tasting of it.
Disadvantages:
Metal packaging:
Advantages:
Disadvantages: